Welcome Home.

Kagome groaned, clutching her head tightly with her hand. She rolled onto her stomach, covering her face with a pillow. She wasn't ready to see the sun just yet. Last night had gone much differently than she had originally planned. For one, she had gotten drunk. Kagome was never the type to even think about touching alcohol of any sort, but she had wanted to have a good time. It was a careless decision and frankly she was amazed that her friends or Hojo had even gone along with it, but she had found that the boy was no longer by her side at the end of the night. With her head still buzzing, she wished that she hadn't even taken one sip of a drink.

With much reluctance, she finally decided to roll out of bed and face the day. It was nearly noon and she had managed to sleep all morning undisturbed. After washing up, she made her way downstairs, prepared for the wrath of her mother. She found the older woman sitting outside, watching Sota and his friends play. She glanced back at her daughter with brow risen.

"How are you feeling?"

"Not so good," Kagome admitted.

"Well, I honestly didn't think you'd come home the way you did last night."

"I'm sorry, I really hope I didn't upset you too much, mom."

"You've always been a level headed girl, you're allowed some slack for occasions like this. But, be careful from now on," her mother warned.

"I know now, thanks," Kagome sighed.

She retreated back into the house and finished getting ready for the day, after which she went to have a quick lunch. When looking at her cellphone, she saw that Yuki and the other girls had all messaged her to make sure she was fine. She could vaguely remember one of them taking her to her bed, after that, she blanked out. Kagome shook her head at the thought, she was still in disbelief. Rather than dwelling on it, she decided to make the most out of what seemed like a beautiful day.

Kagome pulled her hair into a ponytail after she dressed in a pair of blue jean shorts and a white sleeveless shirt. She glanced out her window, fully ready for the sun that was shining. When she went through the back door again, she found that her mother and the kids had disappeared, probably off to an errand. Kagome exhaled deeply, sucking into her lungs the air that graced her. Her eyes wandered across the shrine, an ache forming in her heart.

The young girl sighed softly to herself, then walked towards the destination she was once so familiar with. She stared into the doorway, a shiver running through her body. She couldn't help feeling as though it called to her. She couldn't help but notice the dust that seemed to have accumalated in the shrine. It seemed as if her grandpa had also stopped visiting. Kagome turned away from the well, not daring to take another step forward. Once she was back in the sunlight, she glanced towards the tree that stood nearby. She then took a deeper look, squinting her eyes, and gasped.

"Wait..."

Kagome rushed down the stairs and over to the tree, her left hand at the heart of it, her right to her mouth. Perched upon one of the higher branches was a small wooden doll, which seemed to be tied to the tree, a sacred sultra covering it to preserve it's innocence.

"Kagome! Look what I made!"

The raven haired girl looked up from the bowl of soup she was stirring and smiled at the eager fox kit whom was hopping her way. In his tiny claw was a wooden toy, dressed in white and green with black hair. He sat besides Kagome and held it up to her for her approval. She took it instantly with a giggle, touching the hair that was similar to her own. Shippo had recently found a liking to creating dolls of his own and with his fox magic, bringing them to do simple functions.

"I love it, Shippo."

"It's a gift for you!" he exclaimed.

Suddenly, the doll bounced from her hand and began to do a short dance in the air before falling back into her lap. She hugged Shippo tightly in her arms, praying that he would forever stay the light hearted boy he was. She loved him like her own brother and was ever so protective of him as well. After he lost his family, she had only hoped that she could help give him another family, one that wouldn't be torn from him.

A tear slid down Kagome's cheek as she recalled that precious moment in time. She had desperately wanted to give Shippo a home, and she left. Disappointment towards herself filled within her chest the more she thought about it. Deciding to leave the toy perched in the tree, Kagome wheeled back around towards the shrine, flying up the stairs that led to the well.

"Is it possible?"

She tried to think back to the first time she went through the Bone Eater's Well and any time after that. Did she need the jewel shards to pass through it? That question had never been addressed or answered. It would only make sense for her to need the shards to get through the well, without them, nothing linked her to the Feudal Era. But seeing the small doll had changed things in her mind, she needed to get back there. She had to try. Kagome leaned over the well, staring into the gaping black hole, seeing the bottom of the well only vaguely. She had to try.

Miroku walked steadily, his pace steady and relaxed, one had holding his staff as he continued making his way to his destination. He hadn't told Sango exactly where he was going, only allowing her to think that he may be up to no good. Well, it didn't take much for her to think that of him. He smiled to himself, however, knowing that what he truly ended on doing was for a greater purpose than she could ever imagine.

Due to their history, Miroku fully understood why Sango didn't trust him completely. He was always the type to chase after random women for a quick night of lustful adventure, but he no longer had those thoughts in his mind. The only women he ever wanted to please was Sango and he was going to make sure she knew it. The village he was going to wasn't particularly far, which was lucky for him, considering the person he needed to see had the exact thing he knew Sango would adore.

More than anything, Miroku wanted to move forward with his life. After Kagome left, it was as if no one could bare to do anything, no one wanted to do anything. They all held onto a hope that she would one day find her way back to them. But, what reason did she have? She belonged in the future, she didn't need to continue moving through times, especially with Inuyasha gone. Miroku sighed at the thought, thinking of their old friend. He was different now, and they'd likely never see him again either. Miroku had heard no word of how he was currently doing, but then who would bring news of him, anyway?

The monks heart rate increased when a hut came into his sights, a village shortly behind it. He didn't need to look any further, he knew this was exactly the place he needed to be. Staff still in hand, he knocked on the wood of the residence.

"Hai?"

"Does Master Mamoru occupy this living space?" Miroku called, politely.

"I am who you seek, please enter."

Miroku did as told and bowed respectfully once his eyes found the elder man.

"What can I help you with?"

"My name is Miroku, I've sent word to you-"

"Hai! The young lad in need of a beautiful ring, eh?"

"Precisely," Miroku nodded.

The elder man held up his hand and went to a chest, opened it, then rummaged through it. He murmured to himself for a moment before bringing out a small black box. He handed it to Miroku, who eagerly opened it for a look. The ring was wrapped in a beautiful deliquet silk material, but he hardly noticed it. The ring itself was made of a luxurious white gold with a cdiamonds and sapphire encrusted into it collectively. He beamed and looked up at the craftsman. Words couldn't explain just how grateful he was that this man had held onto a ring as lovely and unique as this one. Once giving him the money for it, he couldn't help but hug him.

"She must be really special."

"You can't even imagine how much, I just hope she likes this..."

"She'll love it, any woman would," the old man smiled.

"I'm sure, I'm just glad I got to it before anyone else."

Before parting ways, Master Mamoru asked him for his tale. Miroku sat with him and told him of the adventures and journeys he had been on with Sango and their friends. Recalling each moment renewed his feelings for Sango continuously. His father was cursed with the Wind Tunnel, and he was glad he was able to avenge him by finally defeating Naraku. Sango's family had also been avenged, although he knew neither one of them would be able to forget the pain they had suffered. Miroku only hoped that he would be able to heal Sango from this moment on.

Miroku was impressed that he had only wasted most of the morning, he hadn't taken much time to get there or head back from the craftsman. He began to recognizee the familiar scenery that neared Kaede's Village and his heart beat began to speed up again. He was definitely nervous. He paused before getting any closer, sensing something he had not been accustomed to for the past few months. With a quick turn on his heel, Miroku headed towards another direction. He pushed through the trees and bushes, only to see emptiness before him, along with the Bone Eater's Well. He stared at it for a few seconds, then turned back around.

"I must be losing my mind," he said aloud.

"Talking to yourself?"

Again Miroku turned, his eyes widened at the voice. Climbing over the rail of the well was-

"Kagome!"

He ran to her, practically dragging her out the rest of the way. She didn't have a chance to say another word before he pulled her into a tight embrace. She laughed, not remembering the last time she had seen him so sentimental. Kagome couldn't lie, it was equally wonderful to see him as well. She didn't know what she had expected, but it wasn't to appear on the other side of time like she had done. When the monk let her go, a twinkle of tears sparkled in his eyes.

"How is this- How did it happen? Why? Now? Of all times?" he stammered.

"I mean... I have no idea! But THAT gave me the push I needed," she said, pointing to the tree.

Miroku followed her gaze and saw the doll he had only recently helped Shippo tie down for safe keeping. He hadn't known what would come of it, he only knew that Shippo had wanted to find some way to reach Kagome.

"I'm so happy to be here! Where are the others? Why are you off on your own?"

"Well, I've just come back from a short trip, I'm going there now."

"A trip?" Kagome asked.

"To get something for Sango," Miroku replied.

"What is it?" she asked, excitedly.

"A ring," he smiled.

"Oh, Miroku! Does she know?"

"No, so don't say a word, promise that."

"Of course, I promise! But let's go see them now!"

Miroku obliged her demand and followed closely on her heel, being that she was practically running to the village. He was grinning ear to ear, knowing how thrilled Shippo and Sango would be. He only hoped that they were at the hut and not visiting her village like Sango had so often been doing. He only needed to guide Kagome to the right hut, but she still remembered the way to the village. It was as if she had never left.

The first to come into sight was Kirara, who lept from the hut immediately and right into Kagome's arms. She giggled and pet her gently, then saw the other two pop out. For a few moments it was nothing but tearful chaos and joy. They all became familiar with one another again and then headed into the hut to discuss the numerous questions they all had. Still, there seemed to be no answers to anything. None of them had thought of the possibility that Kagome would forever be linked to their time, but they were so thrilled they didn't worry. Kagome had only wanted to enjoy the first day back with them.

Kaede had been pleased to see Kagome back, although she too lacked a proper explanation for her ability to travel through the well. She did note that Kagome had grown into a strong priestess, which could have helped. Kagome shrugged it off and smiled. She didn't mind whatever force allowed her to pass through the time periods.

"What are we gonna do today, Kagome?" Shippo asked eagerly.

"Whatever you'd like," she replied.

"Let's go for a walk!" He exclaimed.

"Sure," she giggled.

Kagome couldn't help but feeling as joyous when in Shippo's presence. Miroku and Sango and Kirara were close by, of course. They had all eaten, so the band headed off together from the village.

With Shippo prancing about beside her, Kagome's mind wandered to the last time they were together like this. She tried not be upset about it, but the pain was still fresh in her. They had been together alright, but missing the silver-haired hanyou. Kagome refused to let her mind slip that far. She was still recovering and couldn't let the other see how she had continued holding onto that moment. The important part was that the 5 of them were still together, Kagome counted Kirara, she was a key part of their group.

Kagome hadn't mentioned it, but she could see that Sango was also suffering. Miroku probably saw it just as clearly as she did, but Kagome knew they'd have to be there as much as they could for her, more than anyone else. Losing her brother had been a hard hit that she hasn't expected to take. Throughout their journey to defeating Naraku, there had always been hope of saving him. But when Kohaku died, all of her hope had vanished and turned into ashes in her hands, something that slipped through her fingers.

Perhaps Kagome would stick around a little while, before venturing off to university where the next steps of her lives were taking her. Sango needed to heal, and face her brothers death, rather than denying it. Sango was stronger than she knew and she would be able to conquer her pain, as long as she believed in herself. With the miko back, she would be able to recover that inner strength in no time.

"So what have you been up to this whole time apart from us, Lady Kagome?"

"I've just finished with school, now I move onto college," Kagome answered with a smile.

"That is... extended education, correct?" Miroku asked.

"Yes, I'm glad you remembered."

"Well, it's a joy to see that you're doing so good for yourself."

"Any lessons you have, be sure to bring them to us," Sango said.

Kagome looked at the slayers face to see her smiling contently. She couldn't help but returning the sentiment and nodded yes. Since her time in the Feudal Era, Kagome had begun to think about studying medicine. It would be a great tool to use for both her lives and one she was sure she would be passionate about. The local college offered the courses so she wouldn't even have to leave the city. Now she would be able to continue seeing her friends while attending school.

The group traveled a little farther before deciding to stop at a large pond near a trail that led towards neighboring villages.

The company had spent all afternoon out and had taken to a late lunch in another village. Just when they were beginning to head back, the sounds of screaming caught their attention. Kagome wheeled around and saw a fire blazing from another village nearby.

"What's going on over there?!" Shippo shouted.

"I don't know, but we've got to do something," Kagome said. "I sense something..."

Before wasting anymore time they ran towards the destruction. Kirara and Sango rushed ahead in the sky with Miroku while Kagome and Shippo followed on foot. Whatever it was, she felt it was familiar, but altered. It was dark, and evil. Shippo clutched onto her nervously, but she remained strong. It had been a long time since they had battled and yet her senses were just as strong as ever.

Kagomes eyed widened as she saw the horrors ahead of her. The village was devoured in flames, women and children running everywhere. The men were all headed further into the inflamed village with weapons. Before they even made it, a powerful force suddenly wiped them all back, knocking their swords and spears from their hands. Kagome gasped and bent down next to one.

"Are you okay?" She asked.

"Y-yes, priestess. It's... The dog demon."

"Sesshomaru?" She whispered.

She gently let him down and got back up to her feet. She raced forward, an arrow ready in her bow. Sangos Haraikotsu swung out of no where, making its way back to her. She dropped to the ground in front of Kagome and glanced back at her, fear developing in her eyes. The young miko continued ahead, towards the destruction and could see a figure within the flames. She halted and let her arrow go.

The bright glow that was her miko powers was as strong as ever as it carried its way to the target. A piercing growl erupted, letting her know she had managed to get it. However, the demon still stood. Kagome's breath held still in her chest as she watched the figure moving towards her.

"It cannot be," Miroku said in disbelief.

Kagome's heart now dropped into her stomach. It wasn't Sesshomaru.

He was... different, deformed by the evil which he allowed to corrupt his very soul. But how could she forget whose crimson eyes those were? Tiny slits of blue where his pupils were to be, though hardly visible. But he was not his usual form, he had changed. No longer did he have the dog ears, his silver hair was longer and wilder. It seemed he was even taller, his red hakamas stretching to cover his ankles. But his chest was bare, and his hilt near his hip.

"Well, well, look who returned," Inuyasha growled, cracking his fingers.

Kagome was speechless, and frightened. Her beloved had turned into a monster. She bit her lip, attempting to remain strong and hold back her tears. She never expected this, to see him murdering with no regard for the lives he took. And inside his chest she could sense it, the Shikon Jewel, blackened from the evil, giving him to ability to have unmatched power.

"You just gonna stand there or am I gonna have to tear you all apart?" Inuyasha sneered.

"What are you doing?" Sango demanded. "This isn't right! You are not yourself, Inuyasha."

"Keh, I'm better than I ever was."

Before they could respond to his words, Inuyasha tore straight through, unleashing great power from his claws. Sango flew back into a hut, Miroku in the other direction, and Shippo into Kirara. Kagome remained untouched, using her miko powers for strength. She latched another arrow into place and attempted to aim.

"No, you don't!" Inuyasha growled.

He grabbed her wrist and pulled her bow from her hand. Kagome screamed and hit him across his face. He growled again and lifted her up by her kimono, feet kicking at him. He stared at her with his fangs bared.

"What're you doing back here?" He asked.

"I... I-I can't... Breathe."

"You have no place here, wench. Next time I see you, I will kill you."

With that, he threw her harder than the others and she crashed into an already damaged hut. Kagome tried to get up, but her strength was gone. She tried to stare after him, but he was gone in no time and she lost consciousness soon after.

Chapter two is up! Read and review what you guys think. I was trying not to rush her back into the Feudal Era, but I really wanted to move it along. Hope you all liked it!